Rapid HIV tests were made available this week at clinics in Saint John, Moncton and Fredericton for the 2nd annual National HIV Testing Day.
The point-of-care testing kits give results in under one minute.
But that event only happens once a year and none of New Brunswick’s cities currently have rapid testing available on a consistent basis.
Ensemble Moncton executive director Debby Warren says dialogue has been ongoing around that issue.
“There’s a group that has been working … we have all been meeting and talking. What’s important is about finding accessible testing options.”
She says if someone doesn’t have a family physician, it becomes more difficult to access HIV testing.
Warren adds the rapid tests would be more convenient for many of their clients who may be homeless or living in a precarious situation.
